I am not trying to sway votes with this comment !
I think one reason that 4. ... Nf6 is so common is because it forces Nc3 and avoids the Maroczy Bind. The Maroczy Bind is a Sicilian Defense where white plays c4 and e4 and just tries to restricts black's thematic pawn breaks ( b5 and d5). The idea of the system is to put the spacial squeeze on black and deny him counterplay. That being said, the Maroczy Bind doesn't have to be feared. Black has many ways to combat this system as well. Black can fianchetto either (or both!) bishops and gain some play.
As I have said many times, there are plusses and minuses to every variation.
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Originally posted by paulbuchmanfromficsyes thanks, most excellent, where is this idea about 'swaying the vote', coming from, forgive me i thought the point in playing a consultation game was to consult, and while we may not agree or have a different preference, the consultation process must surely take place.
I am not trying to sway votes with this comment !
I think one reason that 4. ... Nf6 is so common is because it forces Nc3 and avoids the Maroczy Bind. The Maroczy Bind is a Sicilian Defense where white plays c4 and e4 and just tries to restricts black's thematic pawn breaks ( b5 and d5). The idea of the system is to put the spacial squeeze ain some play.
As I have said many times, there are plusses and minuses to every variation.
4...Nf6 for me Paul.
